Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken has a way of transporting me back to my childhood, to those Friday nights when takeout was a treat. The aroma alone, a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and nutty, would fill the house and make my mouth water. Now, I love recreating that same magic in my own kitchen with this easy crispy sweet sesame chicken recipe. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, and the result is a truly delicious homemade crispy sesame chicken that’s just as good, if not better, than what you’d get from your favorite restaurant. The crunch of the chicken, coated in that sticky, sweet glaze, is pure comfort food. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken
This recipe is an absolute winner for so many reasons! You’ll adore the incredible balance of flavors – that perfect sweet and savory combination that just sings. Plus, it’s a wonderfully quick meal, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Truly an easy crispy sweet sesame chicken to whip up! It’s also more budget-friendly than takeout, giving you that restaurant-quality taste without the hefty price tag. This dish is a guaranteed hit with the whole family, making it a fantastic crispy chicken recipe for everyone. You’ll be making this crispy chicken recipe again and again!
Ingredients for Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making incredible crispy sweet sesame chicken right at home. You’ll need:
- 2 pounds of chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1-inch chunks – thighs stay wonderfully moist.
- 1/4 cup of water and 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt – these help tenderize the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda – a little secret for extra tender chicken!
- 2 large eggs – they act as a binder for our coating.
- 1/2 cup of cornstarch – this is key for that amazing sesame chicken coating.
- 1 tablespoon of flavorless oil – helps the coating adhere.
- Sprinkle of sesame seeds for topping – for that classic look and nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup of ketchup and 1/2 cup of water – the base of our sweet sauce.
- 1/2 cup of white sugar and 2 tablespoons of white vinegar – for that signature sweet and tangy glaze.
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce – to thicken the sauce and add savory depth.
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of dark soy sauce for color.
- 1 stalk of green onion, thinly sliced (separate green tops and white stems) – for garnish and a fresh onion bite.
- Enough oil for cooking and frying – vegetable or canola oil works great.
How to Make Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken
Let’s get this delicious dish on your table! Making this crispy sweet sesame chicken is a two-stage frying process that guarantees that perfect crunch.
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks with 1/4 cup of water, 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Give it a good stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Step 2: Toss in the 2 large eggs and mix again until the chicken is well combined.
- Step 3: Add the 1/2 cup of cornstarch and stir until there’s no powdery bit left, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated. This creates our amazing, crispy exterior.
- Step 4: Finally, stir in 1 tablespoon of flavorless oil to help the coating adhere beautifully.
- Step 5: In a high-sided pan or wok, pour about 2 to 3 inches of cooking oil and heat it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. You want the oil nice and hot for that signature crisp.
- Step 6: While the oil heats, prepare the sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1/2 cup of water, 1/2 cup of white sugar, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce (and dark soy sauce if using). Stir until smooth.
- Step 7: Gently drop the prepared chicken pieces into the hot oil, one at a time. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and make the chicken soggy. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until lightly golden.
- Step 8: Remove the chicken from the oil and let them rest for 2 to 3 minutes. This brief rest is crucial for achieving that double-fried crispiness.
- Step 9: Heat the oil back to 375°F. Fry the chicken a second time for 5 to 6 minutes until it’s wonderfully crispy and golden brown all over. This is where the magic happens for that perfect pan-fried sesame chicken texture.
- Step 10: Drain the chicken on a wire rack or paper towels.
- Step 11: In a clean wok or large pan over medium heat, add a dash of oil. Add the white parts of the sliced green onion and cook for about 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 12: Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan. Turn the heat to medium-high and stir constantly. The sauce will thicken and turn glossy in just a minute or two, creating that irresistible sweet and savory chicken glaze.
- Step 13: Add the crispy fried chicken to the sauce, tossing gently to ensure each piece is nicely coated. Serve immediately over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds and the green onion tops for a truly delightful meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken
Want to elevate your homemade sesame chicken? Follow these tips for the ultimate flavor and texture:
- Double-frying is your best friend for that ultimate crunch. Don’t skip the second fry!
- Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (375°F) for both frying stages. Too cool and it gets greasy, too hot and it burns.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; work in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve maximum crispiness.
- For the sauce, whisk the cornstarch and liquid together *before* heating to prevent lumps.
What’s the secret to perfect crispy sweet sesame chicken?
The absolute secret is the double-fry method. Frying the chicken once to cook it through and then a second time at a higher temperature creates an incredibly crispy coating that holds up beautifully to the sauce. This technique ensures you get the best crispy sweet sesame chicken every time.
Can I make crispy sweet sesame chicken ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken coating and the sauce ahead of time. Store the coated, uncooked chicken in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before frying. The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before tossing with the fried chicken.
How do I avoid common mistakes with crispy sweet sesame chicken?
A common pitfall is soggy chicken! This happens if you overcrowd the pan or don’t fry it long enough. Also, make sure the sauce is thickened properly; if it’s too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well. Always test the oil temperature with a thermometer! For more tips on achieving the perfect crisp, check out this guide on deep-frying techniques.
Best Ways to Serve Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken
This amazing crispy sweet sesame chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. The most classic and perhaps beloved pairing is serving it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, which is perfect for soaking up that delicious sweet and savory sauce. I also love to serve it with some simple stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added freshness and color. For an even more complete meal, consider serving it alongside some hibachi chicken or a light Asian-inspired salad. It truly makes for a fantastic takeout-style meal right at home!
Nutrition Facts for Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious crispy sweet sesame chicken:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 750mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For more information on understanding nutrition labels, you can refer to resources from the FDA.
How to Store and Reheat Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken
Even though this crispy sweet sesame chicken is best enjoyed fresh, I know sometimes life gets busy, and you might have leftovers. To store, let the chicken cool completely to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, maintaining that delicious flavor reminiscent of your favorite takeout style sesame chicken. If you want to freeze it for longer, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. For reheating, I find the oven or an air fryer works best to bring back some of that crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain texture!
Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken
Is it really worth double-frying the chicken?
Absolutely! That second fry is the secret sauce to achieving that truly irresistible crunch that holds up beautifully, even when coated in the sweet glaze. It transforms a good dish into a great one, making it the best crispy sweet sesame chicken experience.
Can I make this an easy crispy sweet sesame chicken with chicken breast?
You can, but chicken thighs are highly recommended for this recipe. Thighs stay much more tender and moist after frying, especially when coated in the sauce, ensuring a better texture. If you opt for breast, be very careful not to overcook them during the frying process.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
This dish is fantastic with simple steamed white or brown rice to soak up the sauce. Stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas add a nice crunch and freshness. A side of cucumber sweet pepper salad or pickled ginger can also offer a refreshing contrast.
How can I adjust the sweetness or spice level?
To make it sweeter, you can add a tablespoon or two more of sugar or a drizzle of honey to the sauce as it thickens. For a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha added to the sauce will give it a nice kick, turning it into a spicy-sweet sesame chicken.
Variations of Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to switch up this crispy sweet sesame chicken! For a healthier option, try making air fryer crispy sesame chicken. You’ll get a fantastic crunch with less oil, just follow the same coating steps and air fry until golden. If you love a garlicky punch, whip up a batch of garlic parmesan cheeseburger bombs by adding minced garlic to the sauce as it simmers. You could also try a spicier version by adding some gochujang or sriracha to the glaze for a sweet and spicy kick. For a gluten-free adaptation, simply ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and cornstarch, which is naturally gluten-free.
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Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken: 1 Secret, Pure Joy
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
An easy and delightful recipe for crispy sweet sesame chicken, perfect for serving over rice. This dish offers a balance of sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of flavorless oil
- Sprinkle of sesame seeds for topping
- 1/2 cup of ketchup
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of white sugar
- 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of dark soy sauce for color
- 1 stalk of green onion, thinly sliced (separate green tops and white stems)
- Enough oil for cooking and frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the chicken chunks, water, salt, and baking soda. Stir until the chicken is coated.
- Toss in the eggs and mix again until the chicken is well combined.
- Add the cornstarch and stir until there’s no powdery bit left, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated.
- Finally, add the flavorless oil and stir to coat everything.
- In a high-sided pan or wok, pour about 2 to 3 inches of oil and heat it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a separate bowl, combine ketchup, water, sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, and soy sauces (light and dark if using). Stir well and set aside.
- Gently drop the prepared chicken pieces into the hot oil, one at a time. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes until lightly golden, then remove and let them rest for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Heat the oil back to 375°F and fry the chicken a second time for 5 to 6 minutes until it’s crispy and golden brown.
- Drain the chicken on a wire rack or paper towels.
- Over medium heat, add a dash of oil to a wok or large pan. Add the white onion slices and cook for 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the pan, turn the heat to medium-high, and stir constantly until it thickens and turns glossy.
- Add the crispy fried chicken to the sauce, ensuring each piece is nicely coated.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or fried rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onion tops.
Notes
- Frying the chicken in batches helps maintain the oil temperature for optimal crispiness.
- This dish pairs well with steamed or fried rice.
- Garnish with additional sesame seeds and green onion for enhanced flavor and visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg